Rowan grows isolated among other mountain trees and does not form bushes. Its flamboyant fruits are delicious for birds. In some cities, rowan trees are grown as ornamental plants. These are elegant and long-living trees: many live more than one hundred years.
Rowan Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name – Sorbus aucuparia L.
- Other Names – European mountain ash, mountain ash, sorb apple.
- French – Sorbier.
- Spanish – Serbal silvestre.
- Environment – Spread, but not widely, all over mountainous regions in warm climates in Europe.
- Description – Tree or shrub of the Rosaceae family, growing up to 6 m high, with grey, smooth bark and small white flowers. Its fruits are red or orange berries hanging in clusters.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The berries (fruit).
Common Rowan
Common rowan (Sorbus domestica L. = Pyrus Domestica Smith) renders more giant fruit than the wild rowan tree, similar to loquats. These fruits become brown when ripe in the fall. These sorb apples are more tasteful than the wild rowan, and their properties are identical.
Healing Properties
The fruits of the rowan tree contain several organic acids (sorbic, malic, citric, and succinic), sugars, pectin, tannin, and a high amount of vitamin C (up to 80 mg per 100 grams).
In German countries, these fruits are supposed to have many medicinal properties, though only the following ones have been proven:
- Astringent – Because of their content of tannin, they render suitable results for treating diarrhea and colitis, both acute and chronic. These astringent properties are partially balanced with the pectin they contain, which exerts a mild laxative effect. This combined action has a regulating and normalizing effect on the intestinal tract.
- Antiscorbutic and invigorator—Due to their vitamin C and organic acids content, rowan tree fruits are recommended for people lacking vitamin C, with fever diseases, influenza, colds, exhaustion, and weakened or recovering people.
- Mild diuretic and emmenagogue (promote menstruation).
How to use Rowan
The fruits are edible only when ripe, in fall, when they become softer and darker. If eaten when not completely ripe, they offer a strong, hoarse flavor in the mouth and are an irritant. A handful of fruit per day can already exert therapeutic effects. They can also be dried or prepared in purée after being cooked. The usual dose is 3 to 5 spoonfuls, three times a day.
Frequently Asked Question
Rowan berries are high in Vitamin C, but what other notable nutrients do they contain?
The berries are a powerhouse of nutrients! Besides vitamin C, they are rich in:
Vitamins: A, B-complex, K
Minerals: Potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus
Antioxidants: Flavonoids (quercetin, rutin), carotenoids, proanthocyanidins
Sorbic acid: A natural preservative with potential antibacterial properties.
How might the antioxidants in the berries support overall health?
Antioxidants are crucial in combating oxidative stress caused by free radicals. This stress is linked to chronic diseases. Rowan berry antioxidants may help:
Reduce inflammation: May support conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Boost heart health: Potential benefits for blood pressure regulation and cholesterol levels.
Protect against cell damage: This could have implications for cancer prevention.
What are the traditional uses of the berries for digestive health?
Rowan berries have extensive traditional use as a digestive aid:
Mild laxative: Their fiber content and compounds like sorbic acid may promote regularity
Diarrhea treatment: Historically used as an astringent to alleviate diarrhea.
Digestive tonic: May stimulate appetite and ease indigestion symptoms.
Does scientific research support the plant’s use as a sore throat remedy?
Early research shows promise. The anti-inflammatory and potential antibacterial properties may explain its traditional use. Studies suggest:
Soothing inflammation: Rowan extracts may reduce throat swelling and pain.
Possible antiviral activity: Lab studies hint at potential against viruses that can cause sore throats.
Can the plant help with urinary tract infections (UTIs)?
While traditionally used, scientific evidence is limited. Possible mechanisms include:
Diuretic action: May help flush out bacteria.
Potential antibacterial effects: Sorbic acid may have activity against some UTI-causing bacteria.
Important: It should NOT replace a doctor’s prescribed treatment for UTIs.
Are there any known interactions to be aware of?
Yes, potential interactions exist:
Blood thinners: The plant may increase the effects of these medications.
Lithium: Rowan might affect how the body eliminates lithium.
Always consult your doctor before incorporating Rowan if you take any medications.
Are rowan leaves and bark used medicinally as well?
Yes, both the leaves and bark have traditional uses:
Leaves: Diuretic used for respiratory issues.
Bark: Historically used for diarrhea and as a fever reducer.
Safety note: More research is needed on leaves and bark and their potential side effects.
What are the different ways to consume rowan for health benefits?
Rowan can be enjoyed in several forms:
Jams/Jellies: A classic way to preserve the berries.
Teas: Infusions from berries, leaves, or flowers.
Tinctures: Concentrated liquid extracts.
Supplements: Capsules or powders for convenience.
Where can I find reliable information on rowan’s dosage and safety?
Always prioritize credible sources:
Scientific databases: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/), Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/)
Herbal monographs: from reputable organizations (e.g., American Botanical Council http://abc.herbalgram.org/).
Your doctor: The best source for personalized advice based on your health history.
Are rowan’s side effects known?
Rowan is generally well-tolerated, but for some:
Mild digestive upset: possible when consumed fresh or in large quantities.
Potential allergic reactions: Rare but possible.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 535. Print.
- USDA Food Database: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/
- Ethnobotanical studies: https://ethnobiology.org/
Last update on 2024-04-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API